Illinois has entered its second month without a state budget, and there’s no indication that summer’s dog days will present any new opportunities for a breakthrough in the squabbling between Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner and the Democrats who control the General Assembly.

Col. Kyle J. Kremer of Scott Air Force Base looks back at his role as self-described “mayor” as he prepares for a new job. During his tenure, there have been challenges to overcome, but Kremer said he’s appreciated the consistent high level of community support for Scott.

A St. Clair County woman, who lives in an unincorporated area, is asking the county to allow people to have chickens, mini-goats and other farm animals in residential areas. The Zoning Board of Appeals is scheduled to hear her case on Monday.

O’Fallon Ward 6 Alderman Ned Drolet is also a veteran who is speaking out against Senate Bill 107, which he says would unfairly add to the property tax burden to other taxpayers by giving tax breaks to disabled veterans. The bill is awaiting action by Gov. Bruce Rauner.